Mission

VOICE is the official student advisory board of HPU Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs comprised of student leaders who are dedicated to shaping and impacting our campus culture through the celebration of diversity and active commitment to a just and inclusive campus.

Purpose

The purpose of the VOICE Student Advisory Board is:

• To work with HPU Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs to create informative and engaging programming that inspires their peers to be more inclusive, self-aware, interculturally engaged and socially responsible.
• To build and foster relationships with students and student organizations on our campus that lead to strong student engagement and collaboration.
• To advocate for underrepresented student populations and advise HPU Multicultural Affairs on diversity issues or concerns that affect our campus community.

Role & Responsibilities of Board

It is the expectation of HPU Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs that VOICE Student Advisory Board functions to:

• Support HPU Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs in the areas of programming and planning
• Serve as an advocate for students as it relates to issues of diversity on campus
• Assist HPU Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs with responding to current events and tragedies promptly and meaningfully
• Be diversity and inclusion thought leaders on our campus through reading and conversation
• Develop relationships and actively seek feedback from student peers
• Lead (or Co-lead) an active program and attend at least one active program per semester, as needed

Board Benefits

VOICE Student Advisory Board provides HPU students the opportunity to live out their passion for creating a just and inclusive campus, while also evolving as a leader and future professional. The following transferable skills will be developed while serving their term:

1. Cultural Competence – Student leaders will increase their capacity to understand and respond to cultural variables.
2. Communication – Members will hone their ability to communicate effectively through group dialogue and learn to be active listeners.
3. Professional Development – Members will participate in professional development activities and lectures designated by Multicultural Affairs and Office of Student Life. These opportunities are designed to provide additional development in areas of: Networking, Social Justice, Mentorship, Leadership, Advocacy, and Assessment.
4. Teamwork – Students will learn how to collectively brainstorm ideas, make decisions and implement plans.
5. Problem Solving – Members will develop their ability to discover creative solutions while serving as advocates for their peers.
6. Planning and Organization – Student leaders will have the opportunity to plan, implement and assess programs and events. Each member is expected to lead, or co-lead, one active program and attend at least one active program per semester.

Board Requirements

The requirements at the time of application for board membership are as follows:

• Full-time or Part-time enrollment for the academic term
• Good academic standing (minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA)
• Good student conduct standing (no current or prior conduct record of probation or higher)
• Ability to meet during scheduled times (bi-weekly) set by active board
• Must commit to missing no more than (2) meetings each semester
• Agree to complete Summer Reading and discussion questions in preparation for group dialogue. This reading will be communicated by Director of Multicultural Affairs.

Ideal Board Member

VOICE Student Advisory Board is a great opportunity for students who possess one or more of the following characteristics:

• Passion for working toward a safe, inclusive, accessible and just campus community; expressed interest in multicultural affairs, social justice, diversity, and/or inclusion
• Demonstrated leadership qualities and/or interest in leadership development
• Openness to discussing difficult and critical topics in a group setting
• Ability to empathize with the experiences of others
• Welcoming to new people, experiences, and perspectives
• Collaborative spirit and willingness to work as a part of a team

Application Requirements

All interested students, with the exception of the official SGA Diversity and
Services Chair, must complete the following in order to be considered for selection:

1. Official online application
2. Letter of Recommendation by HPU staff or faculty member

The SGA Diversity Chair and Service Chair has a permanent seat as a member of the student advisory board in an effort to maximize his/or her role as a leader and liaison on campus.

Returning students must re-apply. However, experience and familiarity with board carry weight in selection process.